House Bill 48 Passes in the House of Delegates

RICHMOND, VA – Delegate Richard P. “Dickie” Bell (R-Staunton) announced today House Bill 48 has passed in the House of Delegates.

House Bill 48encodes a version of the "castle doctrine," allowing the use of physical force, including deadly force, by a person in his dwelling against an intruder in the dwelling who has committed an overt act against him or another person who is lawfully in the dwelling.

“I am pleased to see House Bill 48 pass in the House of Delegates with broad bipartisan support.” said Delegate Bell. “This bill allows an individual who is being attacked in their home to defend themselves without fear of prosecution. I believe this is a fundamental right, and it needs to be put in the Virginia code. I hope this bill will continue to be successful in the State Senate.”

This legislation was originally referred to the Criminal Subcommittee of the Courts of Justice committee, where it was reported out with a vote of 6-2. It was reported out of the full committee with a vote of 12-6. It passed in the House today with a vote of 70-28.

Elected to the House of Delegates in 2009, Delegate Bell represents the 20th District, which includes Highland County, portions of Augusta and Nelson Counties, and the Cities of Staunton and Waynesboro. He is currently serving in his 2nd term.